Smartphones are an integral part of our lives and follow us wherever we go, including the bedroom, kitchen, and even bathroom. According to studies, four out of five phones are teeming with harmful viruses and bacteria that can make one sick.
With the Coronavirus outbreak spreading at an alarming rate, it’s important now more than ever to keep your phones germ and bacteria-free. Here are some tips that you can follow.
Facts About Smartphones and Germs
Most of us tend to leave our cellphones on the desk at work— the table has hundreds of bacteria per square inch than a toilet seat. In fact, studies show that fecal matter can be found on one out of every six smartphones. Some have even shown pathogens like Streptococcus and E.coli that are very harmful to humans.
prykhodov/Depositphotos: Constant contact with germs using smartphones, ATM machines, etc.
From ATM machines to door handles to light switches and self-checkout counters, we are constantly touching surfaces and picking up germs. Every time the phone goes close to your face, there’s an increase in the risk of contracting something.
According to the CDC, 80% of infections are spread through hands, and smartphones have become an extension of that. So, how do we safeguard ourselves and those we love?
Cleaning Instructions
ryanking999: Proper way to clean your smartphone
First, check the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning. Apple has a detailed list for users, while Motorola suggests using a microfibre cloth with some water. If you have a Google Pixel, feel free to use household soap.
Even a wipe that has 70% isopropyl alcohol or Clorox disinfecting wipes should do the trick. Don’t forget to wipe the phone case in and out thoroughly and let it dry before putting it back on your phone. Wear disposable gloves when cleaning smartphones and wash your hands afterward.
For Non-Waterproof Phones
While the above tips work well for waterproof phones, one must be more careful about non-waterproof ones. Lysol wipes are advertised as being safe to use on electronics, so you can use those to wipe the screen and back of the phone.
There are also options like ‘PhoneSoap,’ that uses UV light to kill more than 99% of germs on smartphones. It even charges it, so that’s a win-win.
What Not to Do
At_Production/Depositphotos: Don’t spray water on your smartphone
Don’t spray water or any other liquid directly as it could seep into the phone and short it out. Avoid glass cleaners that contain ammonia as they could damage the display over time.
Refrain from using a paper towel or abrasive cloth as the rough fibers can scratch the surface even when moistened. This could also result in trenches that allow more bacteria to breed.
Lastly, be aware of where you leave the phone. Don’t keep it near the kitchen sink or on the dinner table, and stop taking it into the bathroom. Stick to reading a book or magazine the old fashioned way when you’re on the throne. Most importantly, remember to keep washing your hands often, as overall hygiene is vital to keep Coronavirus at bay.
